MCMASTER BIOCHEMISTRY & BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES SOCIETY - SECOND YEAR SURVIVAL GUIDE 2018 2019 - MCMASTER BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
SECOND YEAR SURVIVAL GUIDE
2018 - 2019
McMASTER BIOCHEMISTRY &
BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES SOCIETYbbss MSU CLUBS
Table of Contents
Letter from VP Academics 4
Keep in touch 5
BBSS Events 6
Course Tips 8
BIOCHEM 2L06: Inquiry in Biochemical Techniques 8
BIOCHEM 2B03: Nucleic Acid Structures and Function 9
BIOCHEM 2BB3: Protein Structure & Enzyme Function 9
CHEM 2OA3 & 2OB3: Organic Chemistry I & II 10
BIOLOGY 2B03: Cell Biology 11
BIOLOGY 2C03: Genetics 11
BIOCHEM 3R06 & 3A03: Biochemical Research Practice 12
Research Positions 13
General Tips 13
The Email 14
The interview 15
Words of Wisdom 17
MSU
CLUBS bbss 3Letter from VP Academics
Dear incoming Biochemists,
Hello and welcome to the wonderful world of Biochemistry and Biomedical
Sciences! We are your VP Academics, Julia and Daniel, and we are so excited
to help guide you through the program this year. Entering into a new
program can be scary, stressful and challenging. But not to worry, we have
compiled for you your very own Survival Guide to help ease you into the
program. This includes things like a list of events BBSS has planned for you,
quotes from our upper year friends and research opportunities in
Biochemistry!
We are committed to providing you with a safe and welcoming learning
environment to help you reach your full potential. This upcoming school year
will present you with challenges and opportunities for growth. We are here
for you every step of the way and can’t wait to watch you all achieve both
your academic and personal goals.
Here’s to a great year!
Julia Avolio and Daniel Diatlov | VP Academics, 2018-2019
academics@macbiochemsociety.com
MSU
CLUBS bbss 4Keep in touch!
Touch!
http://www.macbiochemsociety.com/
Website: macbiochemsociety.com
https:/ www.facebook.com/macBBSS/
Facebook: macBBSS
https:/ www.instagram.com/macbbss/
Instagram: macBBSS
Snapchat: macBBSS
Email: academics@macbiochemistry.com
MSU
CLUBS bbss 4
5BBSS Events
The following are events that the Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences
Society Plans to host throughout the 2018-2019 school year. This is by
no means a comprehensive list, and we don’t want to give away too
much just yet, but here’s a sneak peak:
Keeping Up with the BBS Department
Undergrad and Graduate Students will be updating various social media
platforms with all the news and events from within the BBS department (see
previous page for links).
Biochem Social - Billiards and Pizza
This is the first social of the year to get you started on an amazing Biochem
journey! Drop by to catch up with old friends and make some new ones while
playing billiards and eating pizza (because who doesn’t like pizza)!
Brotein Campfire
A great event to release some stress and get to know your fellow mentees /
mentors and other Biochemistry students (with all the joys of the outdoors
and controlled fires)!
Annual BBSS Clothing Sale
Want to get decked out in the coolest BBSS merch? We’ve got you covered!
With all the different selections we’re sure that you’ll find something you’ll
love.
Meet the Profs Night
This important event features various professors that are part of the BBS
Department and is the perfect opportunity to network with professors who
might become your research supervisors.
MSU
CLUBS bbss 6BBSS Events
Graduate Program Information Night
Looking into pursuing graduate school after undergrad? Attend the BBS
Department graduate program information night to learn more about what
graduate school entails and whether this is an option you are interested in
pursuing!
Careers Night
Want to learn more about where your degree can take you? Come to careers
night and listen to what some amazing people did with their biomedical
sciences degree!
Thesis Information Night
This event is focused on learning more about the process of applying for a
thesis and what supervisors are looking for. If you’re interested in a volunteer
position, summer job, project, or a thesis course involving biomedical science
research this night is perfect for you!
Biochemistry 2nd Year Social
Having a support system is extremely helpful and important. Come out to our
2nd year social to have fun while meeting like-minded individuals in your
year!
Biochem Formal
Get dressed up and dance until your bonds dissociate at our annual Biochem
Formal! The theme will be announced later during the year so keep an eye
out for more information!
Keep up with our events by liking our
Facebook page and visiting our website!
https://www.facebook.com/macBBSS/
facebook.com/macBBSS
http://www.macbiochemsociety.com/
macbiochemsociety.com
MSU
CLUBS bbss 7Course Tips
BIOCHEM 2L06: Inquiry in Biomedical Techniques
Your lab group can become really close over the year - don’t hesitate to
spend time together outside of lab! Pay attention in lecture, as Felicia often
discusses changes to the procedure or important information that could show
up on quizzes. Do not be afraid to ask for help - the 2L06 staff are more than
willing to assist you with almost any inquiry. If you are struggling with your
workload for a good reason (ex: multiple midterms that week) and may need
an extension, talk to Felicia - she is your professor, but is a truly
understanding mentor.
Lab/Assignment/Tutorial Tips:
• Read the courseware before your first lab.
• Be familiar with the experiment prep and expected results prior to
attending your lab section.
• Plan to complete presentations one to two weeks before your scheduled
presentation date. Practice presenting as a group as much as possible.
• Arrive on time to labs to hear a quick breakdown of the lab, which recaps
the key points from the manual and any changes to the protocol.
• Use your TA, they are one of your greatest assets.
Study Tips:
• Ask for additional feedback on assignments and take this into consideration
when completing follow-up assignments.
• Consider studying in groups to discuss difficult concepts.
MSU
CLUBS bbss 8Course Tips
BIOCHEM 2B03: Nucleic Acid Structure and Function
The PowerPoint notes are sufficient and detailed, the textbook is not
necessary but can be used for further clarification as needed.
Lab/Assignment/Tutorial Tips:
• Ensure that all group members have a good understanding of the paper
prior to writing the report.
• Come prepared to your meetings with the TA to take advantage of their
advice.
Study Tips
• Use mnemonics to help study, as this is a memorization-heavy course.
• Study for the midterms 2-2.5 weeks in advance.
BIOCHEM 2BB3: Protein Structure and Enzyme Function
Study the textbook and the notes before the weekly quizzes. Go over old
quizzes as practice.
Lab/Assignment/Tutorial Tips:
• Do a quick review of concepts from the last few classes before each in-class
quiz.
• Assignment marking can vary widely between TAs - ask your TA about what
they are looking for and come prepared for TA meetings.
• Presentations require a lot of effort and cooperation, start early and meet
with your group regularly.
Study Tips:
• Make sure to understand concepts prior to weekly quizzes, do not simply
memorize content.
• Complete practice problems.
MSU
CLUBS bbss 9Course Tips
CHEM 2OA3 and 2OB3: Organic Chemistry I and II
Very content heavy course. Heavy use of the textbook (reading and
completing practice questions) is considered key to doing well in this course.
The textbook is very well written and contains helpful summaries of reactions
and diagrams. Practice as many questions as possible and do not fall behind,
as it is difficult to catch up.
Lab/Assignment/Tutorial Tips:
• Read the lab manual prior to lab to understand the main techniques you will
be performing (i.e. general reactions and steps).
• Tutorials are optional, but worth going to for specific questions.
• Arrive on time for labs to hear what your TA is looking for in the lab report
(if you miss it, the TA usually writes something down on the whiteboard).
• Work on the prelab questions and assignments with friends to understand
the general concepts.
Study Tips:
• Try to skim each chapter before it is covered in class.
• Understanding a mechanism is better than memorizing it.
• Arrow pushing is a must-know skill.
• Textbook practice problems and integrated problems are incredibly helpful.
• Complete all tutorial problems, assignments, and old midterms as they are
most indicative of midterm content and excellent practice.
MSU
CLUBS bbss 10Course Tips
BIOLOGY 2B03: Cell Biology
Take special notes of key proteins and their functions within the system.
Application questions often test your knowledge of cell component
relationships. Class notes and modules are suffcient to cover all tested
information.
Lab/Assignment/Tutorial Tips:
• Make note of which tutorials are mandatory, but complete all assignments
as they are often straightforward.
• Pace yourself while writing the essay (literature review).
Study Tips:
• Take concise notes of the online lecture modules - they’re often convoluted
and repetitive but can be simplified.
BIOLOGY 2C03: Genetics
Taking concise class notes throughout the course is worth the time, as they
will help you prepare better for the midterm and exam.
Lab/Assignment/Tutorial Tips:
• Do a quick review of concepts from the last tutorial prior to each tutorial
quiz.
• Tutorial assignment marking can vary widely between TAs - ask your TA
about what they are looking for.
• Participate in tutorials.
Study Tips:
• Study well in advance for midterms and exams, make sure to understand
practice problems from the lectures and tutorials as they may come up.
MSU
CLUBS bbss 11Course Tips
BIOCHEM 3R06 and BIOCHEM 3A03:
Biochemical Research Practice
Although BIOCHEM 3R06 and 3A03 are third year courses, it is important to
start thinking about whether you want to take these courses and to begin
looking for a supervisor in second year. BIOCHEM 3R06 and BIOCHEM 3A03
are optional courses that give students the opportunity to obtain first-hand
research experience by conducting a research project in a laboratory of a
member of the Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences during
the fall/winter or summer term. Note that as part of your degree in
Biochemistry at McMaster, you are required to complete one of the following
research courses: BIOCHEM 3A03, 3R06, 4C03, 4F09, 4R12, 4T15; however if
you wish to complete research in your third year, we suggest that you contact
professors whose work interests you in January or February.
BIOCHEM 3R06 spans two semesters and BIOCHEM 3A03 is one semester. For
more information on BIOCHEM 3R06 and 3A03, refer to the undergraduate
course calendar.
Explore more about the courses available in the BBS program!
https://fhs.mcmaster.ca/biochem/undergraduate/courses.html
MSU
CLUBS bbss 12Research Positions
Looking for a way to channel your biochemistry interests into hands-on
experience or looking for a Biochem 3R06/3A03 supervisor? The Department
of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences at McMaster has plenty of unique
labs, with lots of opportunity for volunteer, thesis, and job positions. Here are
some tips to keep in mind when you are setting out to live your dreams.
General Tips
Start early. Looking for a summer position? Start your search in early Winter
semester. Whether you are interested in a research career or not, lab work
(wet or dry) is a great learning opportunity.
Keep an open mind! Labs are more than meets the eye. You may have your
http://www.macbiwebpage
eye set on a specific lab, but researching professors on the faculty ochemsociety.com/faculty
can direct you to others studying similar concepts.
Communicate with upper years. Contact past and/or current students from
the labs you are interested in - most students won’t mind sharing some tips
to help you prepare for your interview (i.e. verify whether it is a dry or wet lab
and explain what a typical day in the respective lab consists of).
Remember that a lab position is an opportunity. Respect your professors
and your peers!
Don’t limit yourself to just Biochemistry labs. There is lots of exciting work
that goes on across the university!
MSU
CLUBS bbss 13Research Positions
The Email
Do’s and Don’ts
DO introduce yourself. “I am a McMaster Biochemistry student entering
year/Level ___”. Explain the purpose of your email - are you inquiring about
class? Looking for a specific position?
DON’T be intimidated, DO be honest. Remember that professors are people
too. Try putting yourself into their position to gauge what they are looking for
in a trainee or student position.
DO your research! Look for answers to some of your questions on the
professor’s lab website, for example.
DO check your spelling and grammar. Spellcheck over and over!
Why You’re interested
Don’t fake it! A nice sounding email might snag you an interview with a prof,
but fake enthusiasm is always obvious. Professors care about sincerity - be
concise, but don’t be afraid to explain your interests!
Be sure to look into recent or current projects in the lab. Even if you don’t
bring them up in an email, it’s good background knowledge.
Qualifications
Attach your CV. It doesn’t have to be fancy - what matters is that you’re
displaying any prior relevant experience or qualifications. With that in mind,
don’t be afraid to seek out opportunities even if you don’t have experience -
curiosity and a drive to learn is often just as appealing to a professor.
Attach an unoffcial transcript. If you think it will strengthen your email, then
go for it. If not, don’t sweat it!
MSU
CLUBS bbss 14Research Positions
Further Correspondence
Don’t hesitate to visit the professor in person. Try to schedule or plan this in
advance. A sit down meeting for 15 minutes can often be more productive
than a week of emailing!
Be persistent but not pesky! See above: professors are people too!
Don’t get discouraged by non-replies or even rejection. You don’t have to talk
to just one prof or all of them - just the ones that interest you.
The Interview
Be calm
Don’t be nervous! If a professor agreed to meet with you in person, they think
you’re worth their time. Some say getting the interview is the hardest part, so
don’t stress.
Don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm. Don’t be a robot. Professors have
put their blood, sweat and tears into their career, but it’s because they love
what they do and they want to see your passion too.
Be Respectful
Be polite! Address professors as “Dr. ________”. You think your undergraduate
degree is hard? Try doing a PhD. They worked hard for that title, so use it
unless they tell you not to. Make sure you thank them for their time before
you leave. Common courtesy.
Know Yourself
Be ready to learn. As an undergraduate student, learning is your greatest skill.
Explain why you’re excited for the opportunity!
Don’t teach the teacher. You’re not the expert; listening is just as important as
talking.
MSU
CLUBS bbss 15Research Positions
With this information we hope that you’re prepared to get out there
and start your research in labs that interest you. If you have any
lingering questions or just want to talk, don’t hesitate to contact us
(your VP Academics) at
academics@macbiochemsociety.com
MSU
CLUBS bbss 16Words of Wisdom
The following section of the guide includes anonymous tidbits of advice from
upper year students in Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences programs. While
it is important to keep in mind that they reflect unique personal experiences
and might not account for every situation, they do contain some wise words!
“Prior to entering Biochemistry, I didn’t know how such a program could
prepare students for professional schools, industry, and research. Initially, I
had no interest in the latter until September of second year, but am so glad to
currently be working in a lab. So ... Explore! Research some of the professors
at Mac and see what work makes you inspired.”
- Fourth Year Honours Biochemistry Student
“Biochemistry is research intensive but don’t fall into the trap of research
stereotypes. Not all labs do the same work. Research in the Department of
Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences can be anything from bacterial models
to X-ray crystallography, or from bioinformatics to stem cell biology - find
labs that suit your interests!”
- Fourth Year Honours Biochemistry Student
“Don’t be intimidated or afraid to reach out to your peers in the program.
Having a strong group of friends to study and do work with will be a great
way to keep yourself accountable and effcient at getting through the
workload. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to upper years in the program for
help if need be and remember to take time for yourself.”
- Third year Biomedical Discovery & Commercialization Student
“Don't be afraid to ask questions in 2L06, its very important to understand
everything both for the course and for possible future courses.”
- Third year Biomedical Discovery & Commercialization Student
MSU
CLUBS bbss 17Words of Wisdom
“Your research supervisor does not have to be in Biochemistry & Biomedical
Sciences; there are some researchers in other departments (Chemistry and
Chemical Biology, Physics and Astronomy, etc.) that carry out interesting
work.”
- Honours Biochemistry Biomedical Research Specialization Co-op Alumnus
“Start your summer job search early and know that co-op is a great
opportunity that you should look into if interested.”
- Honours Biochemistry Biomedical Research Specialization Co-op Alumnus
“Be open to criticism and ask for help. Get feedback and have your friends
keep you focused. Compartmentalize your work and overlap different course
information so you can remember it better.”
- Third year Biomedical Discovery & Commercialization Student
“In comparison to first year (personally from Life Sciences), second year in
Honours Biochemistry definitely came with a heavier workload. Through
changing your mindset on how you approach problems and stress is one of
the most liberating experiences you will encounter in second year. When
things get tough, tell that voice that you can, instead of you can’t. Sometimes
a change in perspective is all you need to get through your road-blocks.”
- Fourth Year Honours Biochemistry Student
“Think about what you are interested in, and then email, email, email! It’s
definitely not as scary as you think. I didn’t think I wanted lab work until it was
very late, but it’s never too early or too late to email professors about
volunteer or 3R06 positions!!”
- Fourth Year Honours Biochemistry - Biomedical Research Specialization
Student
MSU
CLUBS bbss 18Words of Wisdom
“UTILIZE YOUR BROTEIN! They are there to support you throughout the year.
Also, working with groups of other biochem students is the key.”
- Fourth Year Biomedical Discovery & Commercialization Student
“’You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take’. I think second year students
should understand the importance of working in a team. Courses in Biochem,
like BIOCHEM 2L06, really emphasize group work and knowing how to work
in a group is critical.”
- Biomedical Discovery & Commercialization Alumnus
“Don’t limit yourself to just Biochem, just one extra-curricular, or just one
anything! You are powerful in many aspects and imprisoning yourself into
studying will make you burn out!”
- Bachelor of Health Sciences - Biomedical Science Specialization Alumnus
“Do not panic at the beginning - it’s not as scary as it seems.”
- Fourth Year Biomedical Discovery and Commercialization Student
“Mentality makes all the difference. Build confidence in yourself, and it will be
contagious. Failures are to be learned from and the worst case scenario most
likely won’t be the end of the world.”
- Fourth Year Biomedical Discovery and Commercialization Student
“Take everything one step at a time. When you enter second year all the
courses seem to hit you at once, but if you take things as they come, it’s not
so scary.”
- Biomedical Discovery and Commercialization Alumnus
MSU
CLUBS bbss 19MSU CLUBS
You can also read
